Legendary South Africa batter AB de Villiers feels that his former franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will not be able to acquire the services of star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant. The 27-year-old was released by Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction and it is speculated that RCB and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will go all out for him. However, De Villiers feels that Punjab Kings (PBKS) may end up roping him in as RCB will not be able to splurge a big amount for him.
"I hear you. I think it is incredibly unlikely that RCB will get hold of Rishabh Pant, I think he will be too expensive and all the franchises are going to go for him in the auction. I do feel Punjab Kings spend whatever they can to get him, that's my personal feeling. It's my gut feel, I feel there is a very tight connection between him and Ricky Ponting. I think we are going to see him at Punjab Kings. We'll see what happens, if not, it would be great if RCB can have Rishabh, but I just think, he is going to be too expensive," de Villiers said on his YouTube channel.
"I have told you guys that I want RCB's focus to be on the bowling department, a world-class spinner and also some local players. Want some Bengaluru players in there, I have heard Anil Kumble say it before that they don't keep their local players, quality talented local players," he added.
ABD feels KL will be a good fir for RCB
Also, De Villiers feels that RCB will rope in KL Rahul who they can get at a much lower price. He believes Rahul can take over from former RCB captain Virat Kohli when he decides to hang his boots.
"KL is a quality player, he might be a bit cheaper. Definitely not a bad pick, I love him to bits. The way he plays and I think he is due to come back into form. The classy players like him find a way to come back into form. KL Rahul can also take over from Virat, he is not that old yet. But focus on bowling department, world-class spinner and local batters," said the 40-year-old.
Can Pant break Yuvraj's auction record?
The mega auction is set to take place on November 24, 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Pant may end up becoming the most expensive Indian player in the history of IPL auctions. Yuvraj Singh holds the record for most expensive Indian player at the auction. He was roped in by Delhi-based franchise for Rs 16 crore in 2015.